Nurse Psychotherapy

Training and Qualifications

To practice psychotherapy, a Nurse Psychotherapist must:

• Be registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario as an RN or RPN.

• Complete specialized education in psychotherapy, which may include courses in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and other evidence-based approaches.

• Engage in ongoing professional development, supervision, and peer consultation to maintain and enhance their skills.

• Adhere to ethical and practice standards outlined by the CNO and The Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA).

Nursing Education and Registration in Ontario

To become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Ontario, individuals must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) from an accredited university. This rigorous program includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and mental health, as well as clinical placements in various healthcare settings, including mental health facilities.

For those pursuing registration as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), a diploma program from an accredited college is required. This program also includes coursework and clinical placements, ensuring comprehensive training in patient care, including mental health support.

Upon completing their formal education, all nursing graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for RNs or the Regulatory Exam – Practical Nurse (REx-PN) for RPNs to become licensed by the CNO.

Quality Assurance and Ongoing Competency

The CNO requires all nurses to participate in Quality Assurance (QA) programs to ensure ongoing competency and adherence to professional standards. This includes:

• Engaging in self-assessments to identify areas for professional growth.

• Completing learning plans and continuous professional development activities.

• Participating in periodic practice assessments and audits conducted by the CNO to ensure safety and effectiveness in nursing care.

These measures ensure that Nurse Psychotherapists remain current in their knowledge and continue providing safe, ethical, and high-quality care to clients.

The Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA) and the Controlled Act of Psychotherapy

The Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA) governs regulated health professionals in Ontario to ensure public protection and professional accountability. Under the RHPA, the controlled act of psychotherapy can only be performed by regulated professionals authorized by their respective colleges.

The six regulated health professionals who are legally permitted to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy in Ontario are:

• Nurses (Registered Nurses and Registered Practical Nurses) registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)

• Psychotherapists registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)

• Psychologists registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO)

• Social Workers registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)

• Occupational Therapists registered with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO)

• Physicians registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)

The CNO has authorized Nurse Psychotherapists to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy, provided they:

• Have the necessary training, competence, and experience.

• Practice within their nursing scope and the therapeutic relationship.

• Adhere to CNO’s practice standards, which include informed consent, professional boundaries, and ethical care.

Why Choose a Nurse Psychotherapist?

Nurse Psychotherapists bring a unique and integrative approach to mental health care by:

• Understanding the mind-body connection and how physical health influences mental well-being.

• Offering psychotherapy that aligns with an individual’s overall health needs.

• Collaborating with other healthcare providers, when necessary, to ensure comprehensive care.

At Attuned Therapy + Wellness, our Nurse Psychotherapists are dedicated to helping clients heal, grow, and thrive by providing safe, compassionate, and regulated mental health care.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about how Nurse Psychotherapy can support you, please contact us today!